BREAKING: Northern govs, monarchs converge on Kaduna over insecurity

A joint meeting of the Northern Governors Forum and the Northern Traditional Rulers Council is currently taking place in Kaduna, focusing on addressing the region’s urgent security and development issues. The meeting, held at the Sir Kashim Ibrahim Government House on Monday, includes Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa.

Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum, Muhammadu Yahaya, welcomed his fellow governors and emphasized the necessity for a united approach to confront the challenges facing the region. The Northern states are dealing with issues such as insecurity, economic difficulties, environmental degradation, and youth unrest.

Yahaya stressed the importance of unity, stating, “We are being tested by the ongoing challenges, but our commitment to the prosperity of our people remains our greatest strength in overcoming these obstacles.” He acknowledged a range of issues including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping for ransom, conflicts between farmers and herders, drug abuse, the Almajiri phenomenon, and high rates of poverty and unemployment. He called for continued collaboration with the Federal Government and relevant agencies to support those affected.

To tackle these challenges, the governors proposed several solutions, such as maintaining efforts against criminal activities, reviewing the Coalition of Northern Group’s Security Committee report, and collaborating with security agencies and civil society organizations. They also highlighted the need to invest in education, skills development, job creation, and support for small and medium enterprises, as well as enhancing rural security and promoting agro-allied industries. Additionally, they discussed partnering with the Federal Government to develop irrigation infrastructure and implement sustainable practices.

Governor Yahaya emphasized the need for deeper cooperation in infrastructure, education, and trade to fully leverage the region’s potential. He called for comprehensive reforms across all institutions, reminding attendees of their collective responsibility to guide Northern Nigeria toward a prosperous future. “The people of Northern Nigeria are relying on us to navigate these challenging times, and with unity, determination, and decisive actions, we can achieve our goals,” he asserted.

Senator Uba Sani, the Governor of Kaduna and host of the meeting, also highlighted the importance of unity and collective action against regional issues. He recognized the commitment of Northern governors to peace and shared prosperity, urging collaboration to achieve a secure and prosperous North.

Sani praised President Bola Tinubu’s initiatives to combat insecurity, specifically referencing the establishment of a Joint Military Command and Operation Fansan Yamma as evidence of the Federal Government’s dedication to addressing security challenges. He also commended General Musa for his support and presence at the meeting.

Sultan of Sokoto and Chairman of the Northern Traditional Rulers Council, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, emphasized the role of traditional leaders in fostering peace and stability, stating, “We must collaborate to ensure progress in our region.”

Attending the meeting were several regional governors, including Bala Mohammed of Bauchi, Prof. Babagana Zulum of Borno, Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa, Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa, and Mohammed Yahaya of Gombe.